Women in politics

Ofa Guttenbeil Likiliki, the Director of the Women and Children Crisis Centre, says women are not worrying too much about the Tongan government's decision to not ratify a key UN convention on discrimination against women.

She told Pacific Beat the meeting was part of activities held to mark International Women's Day.

Likiliki said they brought together women from different sectors of society to come to an understanding of the next elections in 2018.

RNZI reports during the recent local body elections Sisifa Fili became the first ever woman District Officer, overseeing the affairs of six villages, and Vika Kaufusi became a Town Officer.

Women's advocates are hoping their success will encourage women to stand in the 2018 national elections.

There are currently no women MPs in parliament and there have only ever been five.

While Siale 'Ilolahia congratulates Ms Fili and Ms Kaufusi, she said they would face immense pressure as pioneers for women.

RNZI reports there are currently no women MPs in Tonga and there have only ever been three, but last week Sisifa Fili became the country's first female District officer, overseeing six villages in 'Eua.

Vika Kaufusi was also elected Town Officer for Haveluloto.